During the golden age of the 17th century, the Netherlands amassed a great fortune through seafaring trade, known as "rich and oily". To this day, the Netherlands remains one of the most prosperous and wealthy countries in the world. This trip to the Netherlands has given me a deeper understanding of this beautiful country, and today I would like to share with you 20 interesting Dutch customs.
First, tap water in the Netherlands is drinkable. Its water is fresh and sweet, and it is one of the world's best drinking water. This is mainly due to their efficient water management. You can drink it straight from the tap with confidence.
Second, one-third of the Netherlands is built on artificial drainage. They developed a world-class water system and used land reclamation to grab land, which has made the Netherlands the vast land it is today.
Thirdly, giving tulips is a traditional holiday gift in the Netherlands. Tulips are in bloom from April to May, and many tourists come to Kroenkhof Park to see the beauty of tulips. A large bouquet of golden tulips is the best gift for the Dutch to express friendship and love.
Fourth, the Netherlands is home to world-renowned painters such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, etc. They did not stick to tradition and pioneered the realistic painting technique of light and shadow, which had a profound influence on later generations. The art museums of the Netherlands show us the outstanding artistic achievements of these painters.
Fifth, the Netherlands has the highest percentage of bicycle use in the world. A quarter of all trips here are made by bicycle. In the busy city, you can see men, women and children commuting to school on bicycles. The bike lanes are completely separated from other vehicle paths, making it safe to ride a bike.
Sixth, public transport in the Netherlands is very well developed and convenient. Both the inter-city train system and the intra-city bus system are top-notch. With just one card, you can seamlessly switch between various modes of public transportation.
Seventh, the Dutch love football. The streets are full of fans wearing orange jerseys. Football is a national sport in the Netherlands. They have produced some world-class players and have done very well for the national team.
Eighth, the Netherlands is home to many of the world's leading art museums. Like the National Guggenheim Museum in Leiden and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, there are countless masterpieces that have been handed down to the world. These are the cultural treasures of the Netherlands, a breathtaking collection of artistic gems.
Ninth, the open laws and liberal social atmosphere of the Netherlands make it a desirable place for many tourists. Marijuana is legal here, and same-sex marriage is also common. People believe in individualism, and society is more tolerant and open.
Tenth, Amsterdam is famous for its red light district. S workers here can show themselves in the shop window, will issue official invoices, and are not discriminated against. It's an eye-opening place that embodies the open-mindedness of the Dutch.
Eleventh, the Dutch people have a very high level of English, the highest level of English among non-English-speaking countries in the world. 97% of Dutch people can communicate with you fluently in English, and language won't be a barrier to travel in this country.
Twelfth, the Netherlands has an extremely high density of windmills, which has become a unique landscape icon. The Netherlands is home to thousands of windmills, which also serve as a practical drain. Sitting in the tulip garden and watching the windmills in the distance make you feel like you're in a dream.
Thirteenth, the Dutch value personal space and do not like to have too much physical contact with strangers. They will keep a distance when talking and do not hug casually. This is a characteristic of this nation, and we should respect their Xi.
Fourteenth, the Dutch don't like to be loud in public. They will communicate with you in a low-key and friendly manner and will not disturb others loudly. This keeps the public spaces of the Netherlands in a comfortable and quiet atmosphere.
Fifteenth, Dutch sandwiches are delicious! Whether it's a barbecue sandwich or a sandwich of all tastes, it's worth trying. Add a glass of beer or milk and you're a standard Dutch fast food.
Sixteenth, the Dutch are environmentally friendly and a "green" country. Garbage sorting, the development of renewable energy, and green travel are all their labels. When we travel in the Netherlands, we should also respect their environmental Xi.
Seventeenth, the intergenerational relationship in the Netherlands is very harmonious, the old-age security system for the elderly is developed, and young people will respect the elderly. Different age groups live in harmony, which also strengthens social cohesion.
Eighteenth, the Dutch are good at foreign language Xi, and most of them can speak more than three Chinese languages. They are fluent in Dutch, English and German. Multilingualism is the norm for Dutch students.
Nineteenth, the Netherlands has well-developed and convenient transportation, and there are frequent train connections between cities. They have a barrier-free environment, and the old, weak, sick and disabled can travel freely. This makes the Netherlands a great place to live.
Second, the working environment in the Netherlands is flexible and favorable, with low working pressure and reasonable working hours. There is a good work-life balance here, which makes the Dutch happy and productive.
These 20 are some of my observations and feelings about Dutch customs. A country of tradition and innovation, with both history and forward-thinking. If you have the chance, be sure to take a walk around the Netherlands and experience the charm of this beautiful and rich country.